Is Bleeding After Laser Eye Surgery Normal? Common Concerns Explained

Q: Is Bleeding After Laser Eye Surgery Normal? Common Concerns Explained

Hello： 1. Bleeding after laser surgery is not experienced by everyone. While bleeding can be a common side effect of the procedure, its frequency and severity can vary based on individual circumstances and the type of surgery performed. 2. The presence of

Is it normal to have bleeding issues after laser surgery?

Hello Doctor, after the first laser surgery, I experienced bleeding (with streaks of blood that appear blurred in between).
During my second follow-up visit, another laser surgery was performed, and the doctor prescribed oral medication (TranSAMIN).
I noticed that the original streaks of blood became denser.
I would like to ask the following questions:
1.
Is bleeding after laser surgery a common issue for everyone?
2.
Is it normal to have blood streaks after surgery, or does it indicate incomplete scabbing?
3.
Does the presence of bleeding mean that the surgery was unsuccessful?
4.
How much bleeding is considered normal before it resolves?
5.
Due to the bleeding issue, will a third laser surgery be necessary?
6.
Can bleeding affect the risk of retinal detachment or other eye problems?
7.
Are there any post-operative care methods or precautions I should be aware of?
After two surgeries, I have experienced bleeding issues, and there is limited information available online.
I am very concerned about my eyes, which is why I have posed so many questions.
Thank you for your assistance.

Fan Fan, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/06/22

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello:
1.
Bleeding after laser surgery is not experienced by everyone.
While bleeding can be a common side effect of the procedure, its frequency and severity can vary based on individual circumstances and the type of surgery performed.

2.
The presence of blood streaks after surgery can sometimes be normal.
The laser used during the procedure may cause minor damage to blood vessels, leading to bleeding.
Incomplete scabbing may also result in bleeding.
It is best for your attending physician to evaluate the specific situation.

3.
Bleeding itself does not necessarily indicate that the surgery was unsuccessful.
A small amount of bleeding during surgery is common and does not automatically mean the procedure failed.
However, if you are concerned about the bleeding, it is advisable to consult your attending physician for an assessment and appropriate recommendations.

4.
The duration of bleeding varies depending on individual circumstances and does not have a fixed timeframe.
Typically, minor bleeding may resolve on its own within a few days to weeks.
If your bleeding persists for an extended period or the volume is excessive, you should consult your attending physician for further evaluation.

5.
Whether a third laser surgery is needed depends on your attending physician's assessment of your condition.
Only they can make the best decision based on the status of your eyes and the outcomes of the previous surgery.

6.
Bleeding itself may not directly affect retinal detachment or other eye issues.
However, any eye surgery carries risks, including infection and scarring.
If you are concerned about the impact of bleeding on your eyes, please consult your attending physician, who can evaluate the situation and provide appropriate advice.

7.
Post-operative care may vary based on individual circumstances, and it is best to follow your attending physician's recommendations.
Typically, this may include using eye drops, avoiding strenuous activities or heavy lifting, and preventing any trauma to the eyes.

Reply Date: 2023/06/22

More Info

Bleeding after laser eye surgery, such as LASIK or SMILE, can be a concerning issue for many patients. It is essential to understand that while some bleeding may occur, it is not necessarily a sign of a failed procedure. Here, I will address your questions and provide a comprehensive overview of the situation.

1. Is bleeding after laser surgery common?
Not every patient experiences bleeding after laser eye surgery. While it can occur, the frequency and severity of bleeding can vary significantly from person to person. Some patients may experience minor bleeding due to the laser's effect on small blood vessels in the eye, while others may not have any bleeding at all.

2. Is it normal to see blood streaks after surgery?
Seeing blood streaks or spots in your vision can be a normal occurrence immediately following the procedure. This may be due to minor bleeding or the formation of a scab as the eye heals. If the blood is from the surface of the eye, it may resolve on its own as the healing process continues. However, if the bleeding persists or worsens, it is crucial to consult your eye doctor for further evaluation.

3. Does bleeding indicate that the surgery was unsuccessful?
Bleeding does not necessarily mean that the surgery was unsuccessful. Minor bleeding can happen during the procedure and may not affect the overall outcome. The success of the surgery is determined by the final visual acuity achieved and the stability of the vision over time. If you have concerns about your vision or the bleeding, discussing them with your surgeon is essential.

4. How long does it take for bleeding to resolve?
The duration for which bleeding persists can vary. Minor bleeding may resolve within a few days to a couple of weeks. If the bleeding is more significant or does not improve, it is essential to seek medical advice to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.

5. Will bleeding necessitate a third surgery?
Whether a third surgery is needed depends on the extent of the bleeding and its impact on your vision. If the bleeding is minor and resolves on its own, additional surgery may not be necessary. However, if the bleeding is significant and affects your vision, your eye doctor may recommend further intervention.

6. Can bleeding affect retinal detachment or other eye issues?
While minor bleeding itself does not typically lead to retinal detachment, any surgical procedure carries inherent risks, including complications like infection or scarring. If you experience significant changes in your vision, such as flashes of light or a sudden increase in floaters, it is crucial to contact your eye doctor immediately.

7. What post-operative care should I follow?
After laser eye surgery, it is essential to follow your surgeon's post-operative care instructions closely. This may include using prescribed eye drops to reduce inflammation and prevent infection, avoiding strenuous activities, and protecting your eyes from bright lights or irritants. Regular follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor your healing process and address any concerns.

In conclusion, while bleeding after laser eye surgery can be alarming, it is not uncommon and does not always indicate a problem with the procedure. It is vital to maintain open communication with your eye care provider, follow their recommendations, and report any concerning symptoms. Your vision is of utmost importance, and your doctor is there to help ensure the best possible outcome for your eye health.

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